…Says Nigeria Remains the Sahel’s Only Functioning Democracy
The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribad,u has warned that any individual or group who attempts to exploit communities, spread terror or undermine national security will face decisive action.
Ribadu gave the warning on Thursday at the dialogue on whole-of-society approach to the prevention of violence and conflict in Northern Nigeria, organised by the National Peace Committee, The Kukah Centre and the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) in Abuja.
The NSA said Nigeria has gone through difficult periods, perhaps more than many other nations but is still standing, pointing out that Nigeria has recorded 775 convictions in terrorism related prosecutions.
He said, “Each conviction represents not just a statistic, but a life restored and a community stabilised,”.
Ribadu said these achievements reflect what becomes possible when government institutions, the judiciary, security agencies, and communities work together in good faith.
“But we must not be complacent. Sustainable peace requires that dialogues like this do not end with speeches. We must translate discussions into concrete, measurable actions that strengthen resilience, rebuild trust, and improve security across northern Nigeria and beyond,”.
Continuing, the NSA said Nigeria is the only country in the Sahel region with a functioning democracy despite the security challenges confronting the region.
“Let me be clear: the Nigerian state remains fully committed to law, order, and the protection of citizens. Anyone—individual or group—who exploits communities, spreads terror or attempts to undermine national unity will face coordinated and decisive action, in line with our obligations to protect human rights and safeguard lives” he said..
Assuring that the nation’s security forces will continue to make sacrifices daily, the NSA said, “Many of our personnel do not speak about their efforts, but they work tirelessly in extremely challenging circumstances. I ask for continued prayers, understanding and patience from our religious and traditional leaders. Your moral leadership is essential and deeply appreciated”.
“We are going through painful times, but this phase will pass. Nations across our region—from the Sahel to East Africa and South Asia—face similar or even more protracted challenges.
“Nigeria remains the only functioning democracy in the entire Sahel, and we must protect that achievement. We will defeat terror. We will restore order. We will not give up, and we will not surrender,”
He however, observed that national security does not begin at the federal level, adding that most of the problems we face are rooted in local dynamics.
“ Communities, religious leaders, traditional rulers, local government authorities and state governments have critical roles to play. When communities are empowered to resolve their own disputes and prevent violence, the need for deployment of armed forces reduces significantly”, he said.
“Nigeria desires peace. Our people deserve peace. And together, with sincerity and shared responsibility, we can build the stable, prosperous and united society we all long for” he added.
